CDL · Driving and Parking

Before transporting hazardous materials, what is the driver responsible for checking regarding the shipment?

Correct answer

That the shipment is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and placarded, and that the packages are not leaking or damaged

  1. A Only the destination
  2. B That the shipment is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and placarded, and that the packages are not leaking or damaged
  3. C Only the color of the truck
  4. D Nothing — it's the shipper's job entirely

Why this is the answer

The driver shares responsibility for safe hazmat transport. Before transporting, the driver should verify (to the extent possible): the shipment is properly DESCRIBED on shipping papers; packages are properly MARKED and LABELED; the vehicle is correctly PLACARDED; packages are NOT LEAKING or damaged; the load is properly secured. CDL hazmat. While the SHIPPER is responsible for proper classification, packaging, marking, and labeling, the DRIVER must refuse leaking/improperly prepared shipments and ensure correct placarding and securement.

Safe handling: no smoking near certain materials, attend the vehicle, follow route restrictions. Knowing the driver's verification responsibilities is core hazmat knowledge.

Source: FMCSA CDL Manual — Hazmat, Driver Responsibilities

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About this topic: Driving and Parking

Driving and parking with hazmat covers route restrictions, railroad-crossing stops, where you may and may not park with explosives or flammables, attending the vehicle, and what to do in a fire or leak. This is one of 17 Hazardous Materials questions on driving and parking, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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